Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

Prepare to indulge in a culinary masterpiece that brings all the flavors of the iconic Philly cheesesteak into a comforting casserole format. This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a symphony of savory beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, all baked to perfection in one glorious dish. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this gourmet delight in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 6 oz sliced provolone cheese (for topping)
• Cooking spray, for greasing

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and green bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
   • Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove the cooked vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In the same skillet, add the ground beef. Cook over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to taste.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked vegetables back to the skillet with the ground beef.
   • Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully incorporated.
   • Gradually add beef broth to the skillet, stirring constantly, until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
   • Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in shredded provolone and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Transfer the beef and cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
   • Arrange sliced provolone cheese on top of the mixture to cover the entire surface.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
   • Slice into squares and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables to the casserole, such as mushrooms or thinly sliced bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
• Switch Up the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor profile of the casserole. Swiss, cheddar, or even blue cheese can add a delicious twist.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for a spicy kick that will take this casserole to the next level.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the Philly Cheesesteak Casserole over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta or bread.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it, covered, until ready to bake. Simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftover portions of the casserole can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes, this Philly Cheesesteak Casserole can be made keto-friendly by omitting the Worcestershire sauce (which typically contains sugar) or using a sugar-free alternative. Serve with low-carb sides such as cauliflower rice or salad to keep it keto-compliant.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

• Omit Worcestershire sauce or use a sugar-free alternative.
• Serve with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower rice or sautéed spinach.

Low-Carb Version:

• Serve over zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
• Use full-fat cheese and cream cheese to keep the dish low-carb and satisfying.

In conclusion, Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a decadent and satisfying dish that brings the flavors of the classic sandwich into a comforting casserole format. With its creamy cheese sauce, savory beef, and caramelized onions, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this casserole is guaranteed to please. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Philly right in your own kitchen!